Unlock the secrets: master the art of making olive garden-style chicken parmesan with this step-by-step guide

Are you craving the crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness of Olive Garden’s Chicken Parmesan? With this foolproof recipe, you can recreate the iconic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading:

• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Make the Breading: Combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a shallow dish. Dip the floured chicken into the breading mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Simmer the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Chicken Parmesan hot with a side of your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. You can also add a side salad or breadsticks for a complete meal.

Variations:

• Use different cheeses: You can substitute provolone or Romano cheese for the mozzarella or Parmesan.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some sliced mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers and add them to the sauce.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili powder to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Tips:

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in the breading mixture.
• Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts thin for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when pan-frying the chicken.
• Let the sauce simmer for as long as possible to develop a rich flavor.
• Serve the Chicken Parmesan immediately after baking to prevent the breading from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but thaw them completely before preparing.

Q: What kind of bread crumbs should I use?
A: Plain, unseasoned bread crumbs work best.

Q: Can I make the Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish and bake it up to 24 hours in advance. Reheat before serving.

Q: How do I store the Chicken Parmesan?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze the Chicken Parmesan?
A: Yes, wrap the cooked Chicken Parmesan tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.